A person’s diet has a significant impact on their risk of CRC. Prudent dietary patterns — such as the Dietary Approaches To Stop Hypertension Diet (DASH) diet — have been associated with a roughly 20% reduction in the risk of CRC.[1][2] These diets are high in fiber-rich whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes, but low in red or processed meat and refined sugar.[3][4]
Vegetarian and pescatarian diets are also associated with a lower risk of CRC compared to diets that include red meat.[5] Garlic, cheese, and yogurt may also reduce the risk of developing CRC.[6][7]
With the exception of wine, drinking more than one alcoholic beverage per day is associated with increased CRC risk.[8][9]
Mediterranean-style diets and diets high in dairy or nuts are associated with lower mortality and a better prognosis in people with CRC.[10][11][12] Diets high in processed meat, sugar, and soft drinks are associated with a worse prognosis.[10]